The number of calories in a Del Taco soft taco varies significantly depending on the type of taco you order. Fast-food menus often have a wide range of options, and Del Taco is no exception. A simple Snack Taco, for instance, contains far fewer calories than a larger, more elaborate soft taco like The Del Taco. For those monitoring their caloric intake, knowing the specific nutritional breakdown is key to making informed decisions. According to Del Taco's official nutrition information, the soft taco options range from as low as 120 calories for a Street Taco to nearly 300 for a larger version.
Calorie Breakdown for Del Taco's Soft Tacos
To give you a comprehensive overview, here is a detailed list of the calorie and macronutrient information for several of Del Taco's soft tacos, based on their official nutritional data:
- Snack Taco (Soft): At 150 calories, this is one of the lightest soft tacos on the menu. It contains 6g of fat, 14g of carbohydrates, and 7g of protein.
- The Del Taco (Soft): A much heartier option, this taco has 290 calories, 17g of fat, 16g of carbohydrates, and 17g of protein.
- Grilled Chicken Taco: This taco is 210 calories and features 12g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 11g of protein.
- Crispy Chicken Tacos: These are the soft taco versions of the crispy chicken tacos. The Ranch and Chipotle varieties both contain 240 calories, 12g of fat, 22g of carbohydrates, and 9g of protein.
- Carne Asada Steak Street Taco: One of the lowest-calorie options, this taco comes in at 120 calories, with 3.5g of fat, 14g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein.
How Ingredients Impact Calorie Count
Beyond the headline calorie number, the individual components of each taco contribute to its overall nutritional profile. The type of meat, the sauces, and the toppings all play a significant role. Here’s a closer look at the key factors:
- Meat and Cooking Method: Grilled chicken is typically a leaner protein than seasoned beef, contributing fewer calories and less fat. Deep-fried items, like the crispy chicken, naturally increase the fat and calorie content.
- Sauces and Toppings: Creamy sauces, such as the ranch or chipotle sauce found on the crispy chicken tacos, add a substantial number of calories. Opting for simple salsa can significantly reduce the total calorie count. Toppings like guacamole can add healthy fats, but also increase calories, as seen with the Carne Asada Street Taco with Guac'd Up, which adds 20 calories compared to the plain version.
- Tortilla Type: Soft tacos at Del Taco primarily use flour tortillas, though the Street Tacos use corn tortillas. Corn tortillas are generally lower in fat and calories than flour tortillas. The larger the tortilla, the more calories it adds to the total. While hard shells can sometimes be higher in fat due to frying, the overall toppings and protein type have a larger impact on the final nutritional value.
Making Healthier Soft Taco Choices
For those looking to enjoy a Del Taco soft taco while keeping their meal lighter, consider these tips:
- Choose a Leaner Protein: Opt for a Grilled Chicken Taco or a Carne Asada Street Taco instead of options with higher-fat meats.
- Go Small: The Street Tacos or Snack Tacos are excellent choices for portion control, providing a satisfying taste without a high-calorie commitment.
- Hold the Cheese: You can request your taco without cheese to shave off additional fat and calories.
- Swap Sauces: For creamy options, ask for salsa instead. The fresh ingredients in salsa can add flavor with minimal caloric impact.
Comparison: Del Taco Soft Tacos Nutritional Summary
| Item | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snack Taco (Soft) | 150 | 6 | 14 | 7 |
| The Del Taco (Soft) | 290 | 17 | 16 | 17 |
| Grilled Chicken Taco | 210 | 12 | 15 | 11 |
| Chipotle Crispy Chicken Taco | 240 | 12 | 22 | 9 |
| Ranch Crispy Chicken Taco | 240 | 12 | 22 | 9 |
| Carne Asada Street Taco | 120 | 3.5 | 14 | 10 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the caloric content of a single Del Taco soft taco is not a fixed number and is highly dependent on the type of taco ordered. For a light snack, the Snack Taco or a Street Taco is the clear winner, with as few as 120-150 calories. If you opt for a more substantial option like The Del Taco, your meal will be closer to 300 calories. The specific ingredients, from the protein choice to the sauces and toppings, are the primary drivers of these differences. By paying attention to the menu and making smart modifications, you can enjoy a delicious soft taco that aligns with your dietary needs.
For the most current and detailed nutritional information, always consult the official Del Taco website.
